The Greatest British, Austrian "Autobiography, Biography" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Autobiography

Autobiography is a literary genre that focuses on the life story of the author. It is a first-person account of the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often including significant events and milestones that have shaped their life. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous public figures to ordinary people, and can cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, career achievements, struggles, and relationships. This genre provides readers with a unique insight into the author's life and perspective, making it a popular and engaging category of books.

Biography

Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.

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  1. 1. Testament Of Youth by Vera Brittain

    Testament of Youth is a poignant memoir detailing the author's experiences during World War I. The narrative follows her journey from her early life, her time as a Voluntary Aid Detachment nurse serving in London, Malta, and France, and her later years as a writer and pacifist. The author's personal loss, including the death of her fiancé and her brother, and the impact of the war on her generation, is a central theme, offering a unique female perspective on the devastating effects of war.

    The 544th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Good-Bye to All That by Robert Graves

    This memoir provides a candid and unflinching look at the horrors of World War I, as experienced by a young British officer. The narrative explores the brutality and futility of war, the author's struggle with shell shock, his disillusionment with the military and British society, and his decision to leave England for a new life abroad. It also offers insights into the author's personal life, including his troubled marriage and his relationships with other prominent figures of the time.

    The 627th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T. E. Lawrence

    "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom" is an autobiographical account of the experiences of a British soldier serving in the Middle East during World War I. The narrative offers an insider's perspective of the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, detailing the author's role in the guerrilla warfare, his interactions with various tribal leaders, and his deep understanding and appreciation of the Arabic culture. The book is also known for its philosophical reflections on war, politics, and the author's personal struggles.

    The 732nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. My Family And Other Animals by Gerald Durrell

    In this humorous and heartwarming memoir, a young boy named Gerald Durrell recounts his unconventional upbringing on the idyllic Greek island of Corfu. Surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric family members and a menagerie of unique animals, Gerald's adventures and misadventures bring joy and laughter to readers as he navigates the wonders of nature and the challenges of growing up. With vivid descriptions and witty anecdotes, this book is a delightful tribute to the beauty of the natural world and the bonds of family.

    The 766th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. West With the Night by Beryl Markham

    The book is a memoir of a British-born woman who grew up in Kenya during the early 20th century. She recounts her unconventional upbringing, her passion for horses, and her career as a bush pilot. The narrative is filled with vivid descriptions of the African landscape and wildlife, as well as her personal adventures and encounters. The book culminates with her historic solo flight across the Atlantic from east to west.

    The 866th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. A Time Of Gifts by Patrick Leigh Fermor

    The book is a vivid memoir that chronicles the adventures of a young man as he embarks on a remarkable journey on foot across Europe in the 1930s. Starting from the Hook of Holland, he traverses through landscapes and cities, encountering a diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and historical remnants. Along the way, he is welcomed by a variety of individuals, from aristocrats to peasants, who enrich his experience with their stories and hospitality. His travels provide not only a physical journey through the continent but also a journey through time, as he reflects on the complexities of Europe's past and the ominous shadows cast by the approaching Second World War.

    The 1119th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Diary of Samuel Pepys by Samuel Pepys

    "The Diary of Samuel Pepys" is a detailed personal account written by a 17th-century English naval administrator and Member of Parliament. The diary offers an intimate look at life in London during a time of great historical significance, including the Great Fire of London, the Great Plague of London, and the Second Dutch War. Pepys' entries provide keen observations on politics, social customs, and personal relationships, making it an invaluable primary source for understanding the period.

    The 1447th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The World Of Yesterday by Stefan Zweig

    The book is a poignant memoir reflecting on the transformative events and cultural atmosphere of Europe before World War I, through the interwar years and into the rise of the Nazis. It captures the author's experiences of growing up in a vibrant pre-war Vienna, the intellectual richness and artistic achievements of the time, as well as the profound sense of loss as the world he knew disintegrated into chaos and totalitarianism. With a mix of nostalgia and despair, the narrative serves as a lament for the lost world of European culture and as a warning about the fragility of peace and the human cost of war.

    The 1481st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Experience by Martin Amis

    "Experience" is a memoir which delves into the author's life, exploring his relationships with his family, friends, and his own self. The narrative is a candid reflection on his father's influence, his friendships with other writers, his marriages, and his children. The author also discusses his experiences with fame, age, and loss, providing an intimate look into his personal and professional journey. The memoir is a blend of the author's unique humor, sharp observations, and poignant moments, offering a compelling and deeply personal narrative.

    The 1682nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Confessions of an English Opium-Eater by Thomas de Quincey

    This book is a memoir that delves into the author's experiences with opium addiction. It offers a detailed account of his life before and after becoming an addict, providing a vivid picture of the physical, psychological, and emotional effects of opium usage. The author's exploration of the dreamlike states induced by the drug, combined with his philosophical reflections on pain, pleasure, and consciousness, make this work a unique blend of autobiography and psychological exploration.

    The 2215th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Wittgenstein's Nephew by Thomas Bernhard

    "Wittgenstein's Nephew" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the friendship between the narrator and his friend Paul, who is the nephew of the famous philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. The story takes place in Vienna and is set against the backdrop of the Austrian mental health system. The novel delves into themes of sanity, insanity, and the fine line that separates the two, while also offering a critique of Austrian society. It is a meditation on the nature of illness, both physical and mental, and the impact it has on personal relationships and one's perception of the world.

    The 3003rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. A Sorrow Beyond Dreams by Peter Handke

    This book is a poignant exploration of the author's mother's life and her struggle with depression, ultimately leading to her suicide. It provides a deeply personal and raw account of the author's attempts to understand his mother's despair and the societal constraints that contributed to it. The narrative is a profound reflection on memory, loss, and the complexity of human emotions, offering a stark and moving portrayal of a woman's life in a rigid, post-war society.

    The 3042nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. My Father And Myself by J. R. Ackerley

    The book is a posthumously published memoir that explores the complex relationship between the author and his father. The narrative delves into the author's journey of self-discovery, particularly regarding his own sexuality, against the backdrop of his father's secretive life. It reveals the author's quest to understand his father after his death, unearthing surprising truths and a parallel hidden life of homosexual liaisons, which mirrors the author's own experiences. The memoir is a poignant reflection on identity, family secrets, and the search for honesty and connection.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Life Of John Sterling by Thomas Carlyle

    This biography chronicles the life of John Sterling, a lesser-known literary figure of the 19th century, exploring his intellectual pursuits, personal struggles, and the friendships that shaped him. The narrative delves into Sterling's quest for truth and meaning amidst the religious, philosophical, and social upheavals of his time. Through a series of letters, personal reflections, and accounts from those who knew him, the book paints a portrait of a man deeply engaged with the intellectual currents of his era, yet often at odds with himself and his health. The biography is as much a meditation on the challenges of leading a life of the mind in a turbulent era as it is a detailed account of Sterling's own endeavors, failures, and achievements.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Memoirs Of The Author Of A Vindication Of The Rights Of Woman by William Godwin

    This book is a posthumous tribute to one of the early advocates for women's rights, penned by her widower. It provides an intimate and detailed account of her life, from her early struggles to her passionate involvement in the political and intellectual movements of her time. The work not only sheds light on her groundbreaking contributions to feminist philosophy but also delves into her personal trials, relationships, and the impact of her ideas on society and future generations. Through this biography, the author aims to preserve the memory and legacy of a pioneering figure whose thoughts and writings challenged the societal norms of her era and laid the groundwork for future debates on gender equality.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Good Company by Frances Partridge

    "Good Company" is a reflective memoir that offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a central figure within the Bloomsbury Group, an influential circle of intellectuals and artists in early 20th-century England. The book weaves personal anecdotes, diary entries, and letters to paint a vivid portrait of the author's friendships, loves, and the cultural milieu in which she lived. It provides an honest and often poignant exploration of the author's relationships with key literary and artistic figures of the time, their shared experiences during the tumultuous years of the World Wars, and the enduring impact of these relationships on her life and work. The memoir stands as a testament to the power of intellectual companionship and the profound influence of community on individual creativity.

    The 3264th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Bad Blood by Lorna Sage

    "Bad Blood" is a memoir about a woman's escape from a repressive childhood in post-WWII Britain. The author recounts her experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family with a philandering vicar for a grandfather and a depressed and distant mother. Despite the bleak surroundings, she manages to find solace in literature and education, ultimately earning a scholarship to university. The book is a testament to the transformative power of education and the author's fierce determination to escape her past.

    The 3267th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Tongue Set Free by Elias Canetti

    "Tongue Set Free" is a captivating memoir that explores the author's personal journey of self-discovery and identity formation. Through vivid and introspective storytelling, the book delves into the complexities of Canetti's multicultural upbringing, his struggles with language and communication, and his quest for freedom and belonging. With poetic prose and profound insights, the author reflects on the power of words, the influence of cultural heritage, and the transformative nature of embracing one's true self.

    The 3447th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Snows Of Yesteryear by Gregor von Rezzori

    "The Snows of Yesteryear" is a memoir that explores the author's complex and tumultuous upbringing in Eastern Europe during the early 20th century. Through a series of vivid and poignant anecdotes, the book delves into the author's personal experiences with war, displacement, and the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, offering a deeply introspective and nostalgic reflection on the fleeting nature of time and the enduring impact of one's past.

    The 4827th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Autobiography Of John Stuart Mill by John Stuart Mill

    This autobiography provides an intimate look into the life of a prominent 19th-century philosopher and economist, known for his influential works on liberty, utilitarianism, and political economy. The book traces his intellectual development, including his rigorous and often oppressive education under his father's tutelage, his mental health struggles, and his eventual emergence as a leading thinker. It also delves into his personal relationships, particularly the profound influence of a female companion on his work and thought. The narrative offers insights into the author's views on society, his contributions to political and social theory, and his enduring impact on philosophical discourse.

    The 5277th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. My Own Story by Emmeline Pankhurst

    "My Own Story" is an autobiography that chronicles the life and work of a prominent leader in the British suffragette movement, detailing her tireless struggle for women's voting rights in the early 20th century. The narrative offers a personal account of the political and social challenges faced by women activists, including the militant tactics employed, such as hunger strikes and civil disobedience, which often resulted in imprisonment. The author passionately articulates the motivations behind her activism, the sacrifices made, and the impact of her efforts on the eventual extension of suffrage to women, providing a compelling insight into the history of the fight for gender equality.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Family's Century of Art and Loss by Edmund de Waal

    This book is a family memoir that traces the journey of a collection of miniature Japanese sculptures, called netsuke, through generations of a wealthy Jewish family. The narrative delves into the family's rise to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, their survival during the Nazi regime, their post-war struggles, and their eventual decline. The author uses the netsuke as a lens to explore the themes of art, loss, and family legacy.

    The 5717th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. My Early Life by Winston Churchill

    This memoir provides a captivating look into the early years of a man who would become one of the most influential figures in British history. The book covers his childhood, his experiences at various schools, his time in India and his early political career. It also provides an insight into his experiences as a war correspondent in the Boer War. The narrative is filled with personal anecdotes, reflections, and a good dose of humor, offering a unique perspective into the formative years of this renowned statesman.

    The 5738th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Diary of Fanny Burney by Fanny Burney

    "The Diary of Fanny Burney" is a collection of personal entries by a prominent English novelist and playwright from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The diary provides a unique perspective on the social and literary life of England during this period, with Fanny Burney's observations on the people and events around her. It offers intimate glimpses into her relationships with notable figures such as Samuel Johnson and King George III, as well as her own struggles with her writing career and personal life.

    The 5738th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. My Silent War by Kim Philby

    "My Silent War" is a gripping autobiographical account by a high-ranking British intelligence officer who was simultaneously working as a Soviet spy. The book details his clandestine operations, the methods he used to evade detection, and his ideological motivations for betraying his country. It provides an insider's perspective on some of the most significant Cold War espionage activities, revealing the complexities and moral ambiguities of his double life. The narrative not only explores the personal and political conflicts he faced but also sheds light on the broader implications of his actions on international relations during a tense period in history.

    The 5947th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download